Sarah Michelle Gellar is taking her return to the Buffyverse seriously.
With the news of a Buffy the Vampire Slayer sequel officially out, the actress admits she’s feeling the weight of fan expectations. While attending the 12th Annual Makeup Artists & Hair Stylists Guild Awards, Gellar told PEOPLE that the response has been both exciting and overwhelming.
"I wish there was a better word than overwhelming," she shared. "It's heartwarming and exciting, but also incredibly nerve-wracking at the same time… because you have to do it right."
Fortunately, Gellar has confidence in the creative team leading the project. "I think we have this team in place that is legendary, from Chloé Zhao to the Zucks [Nora and Lilla Zuckerman], to Gail Berman,” she said. "And I think people are going to be pretty impressed."
Earlier this month, Entertainment Weekly confirmed that Gellar was in talks to revive the beloved supernatural series with a sequel. The untitled Buffyverse project, currently in development at Hulu through 20th Television and Searchlight TV, will introduce a new Slayer and continue the legacy of the original show.
Initially hesitant about a revival, Gellar revealed that everything changed after a meeting with Berman and Zhao. "We laughed, we cried, but mostly we both talked about how much this show means to us," she said. "While I didn't agree to anything at that meeting, I did shock myself by agreeing to continue the conversation."
After years of discussion, Gellar and the creative team—now including screenwriters Nora and Lilla Zuckerman—landed on an idea that felt right. While specific details remain under wraps, Gellar assured fans that the show will only move forward if the team is confident in its direction.
"I have always listened to the fans and heard your desire to revisit Buffy and her world," she said. "But it was not something I could do unless I was sure we would get it right. This has been a long process, and it's not over yet. I promise you, we will only make this show if we know we can do it right. And I will tell you that we are on the path there."
If the series moves forward, Gellar will both star and serve as an executive producer. The show will be written and executive produced by the Zuckerman sisters, known for their work on Poker Face, Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., and Suits. Zhao, an Oscar-winning director (Nomadland, Eternals), will direct and executive produce.
The production team also includes Buffy alums Gail Berman, Fran Kuzui, and Kaz Kuzui, along with music icon Dolly Parton as an executive producer.
Notably, original Buffy creator Joss Whedon will have no involvement in the sequel. Whedon came under scrutiny in 2021 after multiple actors and crew members, including Charisma Carpenter, accused him of fostering a toxic work environment on Buffy and its spinoff Angel.
Originally premiering in 1997, Buffy the Vampire Slayer ran for seven seasons and followed the journey of its titular heroine as she battled vampires, demons, and other supernatural threats while navigating high school and beyond.
Now, after years of speculation, the Buffyverse is preparing to rise again—with a new Slayer ready to take the lead.
Source: Entertainment Weekly